Swerve Strickland, aged 34, has been dealing with a torn meniscus, one of the reasons for his extended absence after a brutal feud, capped by his high-profile match against Kazuchika Okada at the Forbidden Door pay-per-view[1]. Meanwhile, Kenny Omega, AEW’s Executive Vice President and one of its biggest draws, continues to battle “very serious pain” though he has remained somewhat active in non-wrestling capacities and multi-man tag matches[1][3].

According to sources close to AEW, Omega’s current condition has fans and company officials concerned about how long he can sustain an active in-ring schedule given his health issues. In a recent appearance on Wrestling Observer Radio, Omega himself spoke openly about modifying his wrestling style to accommodate his physical limitations while aiming for a strong comeback[2]. He detailed how his recent matches, including a grueling 32-minute Lights Out Steel Cage main event at Forbidden Door 2025, have tested his endurance and resilience but remain vital to AEW’s storytelling[2][3].

Meanwhile, Swerve’s recovery from his knee injury is progressing but still requires careful management to avoid setbacks. Wrestling insiders stress that AEW is keen to prioritize long-term health for these stars to maintain the company’s high standards for match quality and fan engagement, especially in light of other sidelined talents such as Will Ospreay, who reportedly faces an even longer rehabilitation period due to severe neck injuries[1][5].

Fightful and WrestlingInc.com both highlight the broader challenge AEW faces in sustaining its pay-per-view momentum with these top-tier performers out or limited. According to Meltzer, maintaining AEW’s “standard of strong PPV shows” will be strained until key stars return to full health[1]. Meanwhile, AEW programming continues to spotlight younger and midcard talents to fill the void, with the company cultivating future main eventers in the meantime[2].

Industry sources reveal backstage optimism regarding Swerve and Omega’s eventual return, confident that their comebacks will inject fresh energy and storyline opportunities into AEW’s product in 2026. “Both have unfinished business and a sharp hunger to come back better than ever,” an insider explained to WWE.com, emphasizing AEW’s commitment to carefully pacing their returns and building anticipation among fans[4].

To summarize the current outlook:

• Swerve Strickland: Recovering from a torn meniscus, targeted return date early 2026 (likely January). His recent high-profile feud and matches remain a highlight AEW plans to build on after his recovery[1][4].

• Kenny Omega: Wrestling through severe pain but still contributing in tag matches and segments; modifying wrestling style to extend career longevity. Return also projected for early 2026, with ongoing evaluation of his health[1][2][4].

• Will Ospreay: Expected to miss an extended period due to neck injuries, with no clear return date yet; considered the most serious injury situation within AEW’s main event roster[1][5].

AEW fans and the wrestling world will undoubtedly watch closely for any new updates on these stars, who have been central to the company’s rise and success. Meltzer’s reports provide valuable context for understanding AEW’s strategic approach to managing top talent injuries in a way that supports sustainable growth and thrilling future storylines.

As always, wrestling journalists will continue to monitor AEW programming, backstage reports, and interviews—including Meltzer’s upcoming Wrestling Observer newsletters and radio shows—for the latest information on Kenny Omega, Swerve Strickland, and AEW’s evolving competitive landscape.